Mount Meru is situated along the northern part of Tanzania, it is the most sought-after when it comes to Mountain hiking in the country, the mountain is often shadowed by the existence of the highest mountain in Africa Kilimanjaro, despite it being obstructed, it is known for its stunning beauty and wildlife species, Mount Meru is the second highest mountain in Tanzania, it comes 5th in Africa, it is said to have recently erupted which greatly reduced its size, it formed 2 peaks the ash cone and Meru summit, the highest point of the mountain raises to 4,566 meters above sea level.
Mount Meru’s major activity is mountain hiking, it begins in the early morning with a briefing from the park rangers, it takes 3-4 days to reach the summit through amazing vegetation zones, beginning from the lowland farmlands, montane forest, heath and moorland, and an everlasting flowery region as you approach the summit, hiring a porter is mandatory when considering hiking Mount Meru to enhance guest experience these will help out with equipment and bags, it is required to have permits to do the hiking, these are acquired from Arusha Park Authorities.
Mount Meru hiking routes offer the best views in the conservation area, the climbing is popular via the momella route, on the first day the stopover will be at the Miriakamba hut, en route expect to have an armed ranger for protection, you will enjoy views of Mount Kilimanjaro, you will encounter animal species like elephants, waterbucks, bushbucks, buffaloes and several bird species, on the second-day guests proceed to hike to saddle Meru which gives great views of the Meru crater, on this day the walk goes through a thick montane forest area night spent at the saddle hut for dinner and staying overnight, on the third-day travellers proceed to the Rhino point, where you will proceed to the summit. Day 4 is always for descending the mountain to the starting point at the Momella gate.
Routings only change course but still give the same experiences, it is important to be prepared for the hike, it may seem as easy but it is not, therefore, it is wise to pack right including sleeping bags, proper waterproof hiking boots, rain jackets, waterproof covers for phones and cameras, huts, hand gloves and any other important items of persona nature. The best time to hike Mount Meru is during the dry season during the months of December-February and June-September when the trails are much drier and easy to access, it is also a high tourism season with more people travelling hence wise to book permits on time and accommodation facilities.
Mount Meru Hiking routes will take you to explore the best of the national park, they have been well maintained to ease access to the summit of the mountain. Hiking Mount Meru is often done by travellers who are preparing for the bigger hike at Mountain Kilimanjaro.
In conclusion, Mount Meru Hiking routes enhance experiences of the mountain Meru, they are managed by Arusha National Park.